2016 Formula 1 World Champion Nico Rosberg on Wednesday announced his retirement from the sport with immediate effect. His announcement on Facebook follows his elevation to the top of the sport on November 27, where he came in second to his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi, but secured enough points for the championship.

In his post on Facebook, Rosberg said, “Since 25 years in racing, it has been my dream, my ‘one thing’ to become Formula One World Champion. Through the hard work, the pain, the sacrifices, this has been my target. And now I’ve made it.”

While thanking his family, and wife Vivian in particular, Rosberg said, “I’m just here to enjoy the moment. There is time to savour the next weeks, to reflect on the season and to enjoy every experience that comes my way. After that, I will turn the next corner in my life and see what it has in store for me…”